Spacecraft Avionics Engineer

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. 

About the Role

Apex is looking for an Avionics Engineer to design and develop avionics systems and electrical components for satellite platforms. In this role, you’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams, develop electrical architectures, and ensure seamless integration of subsystems while maintaining the highest standards of performance.

Responsibilities:

• Design and Development: Design and develop avionics systems and electrical components for satellite systems, considering mission requirements, technical specifications, and industry standards.

• System Integration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, systems engineers, and software engineers, to ensure seamless integration of avionics subsystems into the satellite platform.

• Electrical Architecture: Develop and implement electrical system architectures and schematics, including power distribution, communication interfaces, and control systems.

• Electrical Board Design: Design and create electrical boards, including printed circuit boards (PCBs), considering electrical component placement, signal routing, and manufacturability.

• Component Selection: Conduct thorough research and analysis to select suitable electronic components, such as sensors, transmitters, receivers, and processors, that meet the project requirements.

• Testing and Validation: Define and execute comprehensive test plans and procedures to validate avionics and electrical systems' performance, ensuring compliance with specifications and safety standards.

• Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve electrical and avionics system issues during development, integration, and testing phases, employing analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate activities, share knowledge, and provide technical guidance on avionics and electrical engineering aspects.

• Research and Innovation: Stay updated with the latest advancements and emerging trends in avionics and electrical engineering for satellite systems, and apply innovative solutions to enhance performance and efficiency.

Requirements:

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Avionics Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees are preferred.

• 1-3 years of relevant experience in avionics and electrical engineering, preferably in the aerospace or satellite industry.

• Proficient in designing and developing avionics systems, electrical circuits, and subsystems.

• Strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, including analog and digital circuit design, power electronics, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).

• Experience with electrical design tools, such as eCAD software such as Altium, circuit simulation software such as LTSpice, and PCB design tools.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyze complex electrical and avionics engineering problems, identify innovative solutions, and implement effective troubleshooting techniques.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams, communicate complex technical concepts, and work towards shared project goals.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work while adhering to project deadlines and budget constraints. Ability to debug complex problems using typical tools such as Logic Analyzer, Oscilloscopes, Spectrum Analyzers.

• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, adapting to changing priorities and technologies.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information and collaborate with stakeholders at various levels.

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Cash bonus eligibility: share in Apex’s success with eligibility for a performance-based cash bonus on top of your salary, rewarding the impact you make

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package: Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan: Generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave: Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup: All the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office: With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Additional Information:

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.

ITAR Requirements

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.